Community Activist Critiques Camden Housing Authority's Management and Eviction Policies

Concerns over housing conditions and public safety dominated the Camden County Board of Commissioners meeting on July 18, 2025, as community activist Gary Frazier raised urgent issues affecting residents in Camden. Frazier criticized the ongoing shared service agreements with the city, particularly highlighting the disruptive construction work by Miller's and American Water, which has left dangerous holes in residential streets without proper notification or repairs.

Frazier's passionate address included alarming accounts from residents, including a disabled woman facing unsafe conditions due to unfilled trenches outside her home. He also pointed to the housing authority's troubling practices, claiming that residents were being unjustly evicted due to alleged failures in property management. He emphasized that many of these facilities, managed by companies like Michaels Management, have fallen into disrepair, leaving residents without essential maintenance for years.

The activist expressed frustration over the lack of accountability from the board, particularly targeting Commissioner Dreyer for his absence at a recent housing authority meeting. Frazier demanded answers regarding the legality of evictions and the adequacy of housing vouchers provided to displaced residents, which he argued were outdated and insufficient for the current rental market.

Frazier's remarks underscored a broader crisis in Camden, where he warned that the combination of inadequate housing and rising living costs could lead to increased homelessness. He called for immediate action from the commissioners to address these pressing issues and ensure that residents are not left without support.

As the meeting progressed, Frazier's concerns resonated with many attendees, highlighting the urgent need for the board to prioritize housing stability and public safety in Camden. The community awaits a response from the commissioners on how they plan to tackle these critical challenges.